On 12 December, First Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Economy of Ukraine Yuliia Svyrydenko met with the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey Mustafa Levent Bilgen to discuss the expansion of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. The event was also attended by Taras Kachka, Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade Representative of Ukraine.

The governments of both countries are ready to ratify the Free Trade Agreement between Ukraine and the Republic of Turkey in the near future. Once the ratification process is completed, the Agreement will enter into force in early 2024, opening up new opportunities for duty-free or partially duty-free trade between the two countries.

“The Free Trade Agreement will also simplify logistical issues, facilitate the development of Ukrainian business in times of war, and open new prospects in Ukraine for our partners from Turkey. In addition, we will establish a working group on grain to discuss global and bilateral trade in the grain market. Ukraine highly appreciates Turkey’s participation in defending the grain export initiative, which is an important factor in ensuring global food security,” Yuliia Svyrydenko noted.

The parties are also ready for a constructive dialogue on expanding economic cooperation, including the launch of joint projects in priority sectors of the economy. Strategically important sectors for Ukraine’s reconstruction and attracting private investment are defence, agricultural production and processing, renewable energy, gas production and storage, green metallurgy, environmentally friendly transport, healthcare and pharmaceuticals.

“Ukrainian entrepreneurs are ready to do business with international partners. That is why the Government is taking every opportunity to attract additional resources, including for Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction. Another important area is humanitarian demining. We need heavy-duty demining vehicles, training for deminers, and anything else that will help us clear our land as quickly as possible. We are open to cooperation and encourage international companies to come to Ukraine,” Yuliia Svyrydenko emphasized.